Need gift ideas for your favorite runner, fitness fan, or foodie – or looking for items to put on your own wish list? Here are some of my favorites from around the web! (Please note that affiliate links are included in this post.)
For the Runner
- A race registration! Local or exotic. 🙂
- Shameless self plug: a copy of my Nutrition for Runners program! Nutrition for Runners is a comprehensive nutrition and training program for runners. In addition to meal guides, expert interviews, and a full recipe cookbook, it also includes a library of training plans (from my co-author, a running coach) designed for either performance or weight loss.
- Fun running-themed shirts! Check out my Will Run for Bacon tank 🙂
- A race bib/medal holder. I have one in my office at home and love it! This combination bib/medal holder is especially cute for women, and I love this inspirational medal holder too. Here is a more manly option for guys.
- A commemorative race print. A company called Run Ink Design creates a custom frame-able race map that includes your runner’s finish time, bib number, and race date. Cool!
- Reflective gear. Keep your favorite runner safe while they run in the dark! Here’s a great headlamp for running and you might also consider getting them a reflective vest.
- Winter running accessories. If your favorite runner lives in a climate that involves lots of running on ice or snow, runner-friendly YaxTrax (little grips that fit onto your running shoes) are a must. Also, warm gloves (I like the Drift mitten gloves) and running hats (check out this nice running beanie or this running ear warmer) are always welcomed.
- A GPS watch. I have both the Garmin 225 and the Garmin 910xt – you can read my review/comparison of them in this post. For a cheaper but very well reviewed option, check out the Garmin Forerunner 10.
- Performance socks. Having socks that wick away sweat and don’t slip down is so key for a runner. I love both bombas socks (for every pair purchased, one is donated – love that) and Brooks running socks (that’s the women’s version – here’s the men’s).
- Compression wear. I like CEP compression and Champion CSX. I wear compression socks around the house after runs, and sleeves during long runs when the weather isn’t too hot. They’ve really helped me with shin splint/calf tightness issues. Another option specifically for ankle/plantar fasciitis issues is these compression foot/ankle sleeves.
- Ice packs. So necessary for long distance runners! I love Pardice Packs (the cuffs) – they don’t sweat on you and the cuff design means they easily stay around your knees/ankles/legs.
- A running belt or hydration pack. I’ve had a SPIbelt for years – I wear it on shorter runs when I don’t have my water vest along for the ride and want to carry my phone. And speaking of water vests, the Nathan hydration vest is amazing for long distance runners (or hikers, or bikers).
- A foam roller/stick. I recommend this foam roller – a foam roller is a must for any runner. Using this daily has made a huge difference in recovery/soreness for me! For travel, try The Stick – there are a variety of sizes and it’s more portable. It’s also easier to use while on the couch watching TV. 😉
For the Fitness Fan
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- Funny tank tops. My faves: this burpee tank, “Oh my Quad Becky Look at her Squat”, “I am unable to quit as I am currently too legit”, “T-Rex Hates Pushups”, “Yoga – I’m Down, Dog”, “Meet Me at the Bar”, “This is my happy hour”, “Gym and Tonic”
- Headphones that stay put. Matt and I love these headphones – cheap and the only ones we’ve found that don’t fall out while running! Also – these cord tacos are genius if you don’t want your headphones to get tangled in your gym bag or purse.
- A wireless speaker. Perfect for those that work out at home! We have a Sonos wireless speaker and it’s amazing – you play music via an app on your phone (we mostly play Pandora on it). For a cheaper option, this speaker is well reviewed!
- No-slip headbands. I recommend Sweaty Bands Elastic Sports Headbands – Among the very few headbands I’ve found that actually stay on my head.
- A yoga mat. This Jade Yoga Mat is my absolute favorite. Not slippery at all! And while you’re at it, a yoga mat sling or yoga mat bag are also useful! If you want a good gift for someone who does a lot of hot/heated yoga, consider a yoga towel – I have and love this yoga towel.
- A gym bag. I have this Lululemon backpack that I LOVE – use it almost every day to haul workout clothes and my computer around town. This gym bag is also super cute and affordable!
For The Cook/Foodie
- Box of assorted cooking/food goodies: For the guy in your life, Mantry sounds awesome. This foodie gift box (spices/cooking stuff) is affordable and sounds fabulous, or class it up with the gourmet coffee sampler.
- Fun oil and/or vinegar. Garlic olive oil and lemon olive oil are two Matt and I always love, and here is a fun olive oil + balsamic sampler.
- An espresso/coffee machine. We have the Nespresso Pixie Espresso Maker and it’s my favorite thing in our kitchen. Another thing 100% worth the splurge is the Nespresso Aeroccino Plus milk foamer. It warms AND foams your milk (or you can have it just foam and keep the milk cold). We also have the Nifty Nespresso Carousel, which holds our capsules. I also recommend the Keurig Home Brewing System – this is Matt’s favorite thing in our kitchen! It’s super simple to use and makes great (and quick) coffee and tea! You can also buy a reusable K-cup so you can use your own loose leaf tea or ground coffee. If you already have a Keurig, a K-cup carousel is a fun addition.
- Tools that make cooking easier. Some recs for things we use all the time: a garlic press, an oil mister, silicone baking mats (no stick!), a knife sharpener, an egg slicer, a peeler, a zester/grater. We also really love GIR products – check out this GIR spoon set, GIR spatula and flipper set, and GIR microwave/oven safe suction lids.
Other ideas:
- A Stitch Fix gift card! It’s actually available for guys now too!
- Here are My Favorite Books. Good stocking stuffers!
- The greatest slippers of all time – I have two pairs and literally never take them off. If I am home, these are on my feet.
- For DC area readers: check out District Line Co., which makes fun local t-shirts and tanks (and onesies)! I have the Arlington tank and love it.
What’s on your holiday wish list?
